Google enhances contact sync on Android: Here is how it affects you

Google made changes to how Contacts sync to a Google Account on Android phones.

These changes can create problems for some users.

But there's a simple solution to make the process smoother and fix any issues.

Here is the new Contacts sync option for a better experience.

Understanding the Changes

Google Play Services v23.20 introduced an updated Contacts sync option that impacts all Android devices.

If users disable sync in Google Contacts, all previously synced contacts will be removed from their Android phones.

Before this update, contacts stayed on the device they were synced to, and new contacts weren't transferred to other devices.

The Contacts sync feature was designed to make transferring contacts easier when switching Android phones.

However, accidentally disabling this feature can cause complications, particularly for users who are not very familiar with the technology.

Resolving Contact Sync Issues

If you find yourself in a situation where your contact list suddenly disappears, there are steps you can take to rectify the problem.

Follow the instructions below to enable contacts to sync and retrieve your contacts.

1. Open the Settings menu on your Android Smartphone.
2. Here you have to click on the "Passwords & Accounts" option.
3. From the list of accounts, choose the Google account associated with your contacts.
4. Within the selected Google account settings, locate the toggle switch for Contacts and ensure it is turned on.
5. Additionally, you can verify if your contacts are present by visiting contacts.google.com. If you can see your contacts there, the issue may lie with the syncing process.